Human and trade union rights

Together with its affiliates, its regional organisations, the Global Union Federations, as well as with non-governmental organisations, the ITUC carries out ongoing campaign action for the universal respect of trade union rights, as guaranteed by the Conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

The ITUC defends trade unionists whenever their fundamental human rights are violated as a result of their trade union activities. It also takes action against other labour rights violations, and other violations of human rights especially where these affect working people.

The ITUC condemns the Chinese regime’s plan to impose a complete stranglehold on Hong Kong’s legal system and law enforcement. A decision by the regime is imminent, and the Hong Kong government is expected to obey Beijing’s instruction to hand over control of the judiciary and police, in violation of Article 23 of Hong Kong’s Basic Law.

Chilean trade union leader Barbara Figueora has been awarded the prestigious Arthur Svensson International Prize for Trade Union Rights, in recognition of her commitment as the leader of CUT Chile in fighting for social justice.

Unfounded criminal charges against the entire 7-member Executive Board of ITUC Turkish affiliate KESK were thrown out by the 4th High Criminal Court in Ankara on 3 March in a decision which confirms that calling for peace cannot be considered a crime under Turkish law.

The ITUC and ETUC have won promises from the Ukrainian authorities that planned new labour laws will comply with ILO standards and EU labour law and that trade unions will be consulted in the process of drafting the legislation.